viable

Pluralviables

1. 1
   adjective

   Possible to actually do, with a real chance of working.

   Like a plan that can really work, not just a dream on paper.

   We need to find a viable way to fix the leak before winter.

   Walking to school is a viable option when the weather is nice.

   Similarfeasible, workable, practicable, realistic, practical

   Oppositeunworkable, impractical, unrealistic

   Note
2. 2
   adjective

   Able to keep going and do well over time.

   Like a business that earns enough to keep its doors open.

   The small shop stayed viable for twenty years.

   Is the bus route still viable now that fewer people ride it?

   Similarsustainable, workable

   Oppositeunsustainable, unworkable

   Note
3. 3
   adjective

   Able to live on its own, as a newborn baby can.

   Like a chick strong enough to live once it hatches from the egg.

   The baby was born early but was small and still fully viable.

   By that point in the pregnancy, the fetus is usually viable.

4. 4
   adjective

   Able to stay alive and grow.

   Like a seed that still has life in it and can sprout.

   Only the viable seeds will grow into healthy plants.

   The cells stayed viable in the cold storage for weeks.

   Note
5. 5
   nouncountable

   A living thing that can survive and grow on its own.

   The scientist counted each viable under the microscope.

   Only the viables survived in the new dish.

   Note

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